Property Line Disputes on the Rise
by Senator Steve Green

Some of you may have heard of recent land surveys being done, resulting in the loss of property – the corner of a building, well or sewer, or maybe even a house. What’s going on?

In the late 1800s Minnesota was surveyed and monuments were set. This survey included set boundary lines, which were the foundations from which people have bought and sold property for over 100 years. Over time monuments have deteriorated and it has affected many property and boundary lines. This is causing heartburn for many.

Property line disputes have been increasing over the last decade, so to solve the problem, last year the legislature approved funding to re-establish property line markers.

In recent years, the increase in technology has allowed surveyors to draw straight lines for longer distances. But because of the deteriorating of monuments combined with the new technology for drawing these property lines, many surveyors have bypassed corner monuments and boarders that have been in place for 100 years. This had led to many original and existing boundaries being moved and the lines between properties have been brought into question. I have received many complaints across different counties. This is cause for concern.

Despite the money that was appropriated is for reestablishing these original monuments and property lines, there is a danger that you need to be aware of: if county commissioners choose to set new markers based on the new GIS lines, many landowners will lose property. People are already experiencing this now and feel like they have no recourse for losing their land. Landowners should always be on sight when these surveys are being done, so they can ensure their lines are not moved. It would be wise for landowners to proactively contact their County Commissioners and I would also advise folks to attend local meetings and stay informed as this process continues in counties and communities throughout the state.

We know that a process like this should involve all local landowners, yet the government has gotten comfortable with circumventing the public. Because of the way these things are being done, people are left fighting for their homes and properties. And the worst part is they feel like they have no recourse – they can either cede their land or pay the state for it. Those affected by these new lines are losing power over their own land that they have owned for years, some even longer.

All of these issues have combined to affect property ownership, and it’s something we need to address immediately on all fronts.